The Podcast Interview Marketing Show

If you’re still marketing like it’s the year 2000, this episode is your wake-up call. Host Tom Schwab sits down with Interview Valet’s Marketing Manager, Tiffany Meenk, to unpack why the strategies that built brands in the early 2000s will bury them in 2025. Together, they explore what it means to market in a post-SEO, AI-accelerated world, one where trust trumps attention, and relationships outperform reach. From the death of keywords and vanity metrics to the rise of trust-based, human-driven marketing, Tom and Tiffany reveal why your website traffic doesn’t matter like it used to and how AI is now indexing and recommending podcast interviews as credible sources of expertise. You’ll learn why long-form, human-created conversations (like podcasts) are becoming the new authority signals that both people and AI trust most. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, author, or B2B service professional trying to stay relevant, this episode challenges you to stop measuring outdated metrics and start focusing on authentic authority. Because in 2025 and beyond, it’s not about being louder, it’s about being trusted.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:25] Lessons learned from the dot-com boom [06:09] Trust over attention is the new currency [11:57] AI’s impact on search and ranking [18:58] Mass email & generic outreach is dead [26:20] Optimizing for value and profits, not just leads   Resources From This Episode InterviewValet.com/Tiffany PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

How do you stand out as a trusted authority in an age where AI can generate anything, but not everything feels real? Drew McLellan, CEO of Agency Management Institute and host of Build a Better Agency, explores how AI is reshaping the way agencies attract and serve clients. With over 500 podcast episodes and decades of experience coaching agency owners, Drew shares with host Tom Schwab why authentic human connection is still the ultimate competitive advantage. They discuss how podcasting builds trust faster than any algorithm, why being a calm, credible voice in the chaos makes you magnetic to your ideal clients, and how to lead with generosity and authority in a world full of noise. If you’re an agency owner, consultant, or service-based entrepreneur navigating the AI era, this episode is your roadmap to staying relevant and real. Discover why the future of marketing belongs to the guides, not the vendors.   Timestamps From This Episode [03:40] Human connection as a competitive advantage [10:45] Magnetic marketing, attracting ideal clients and repelling poor fits [14:50] Credibility and trust are more important than ever in the AI era [20:05] Podcasting as a service sampler to your expertise before hiring you [26:15] Responsibility and trust in client relationships.   Resources From This Episode AgencyManagementInstitute.com InterviewValet.com

What if everything you’ve been taught about selling is wrong? The world’s number one authority on trust-based selling, Ari Galper, challenges the traditional numbers game approach to sales. Talking with host Tom Schwab, he shares his belief that we’re living in a trust recession, where prospects are skeptical, sales funnels are broken, and chasing leads only erodes credibility. Together, they unpack why the old-school funnel fails and introduce a revolutionary alternative - The Sales Cylinder, a system built not on pressure or persuasion, but on diagnosis, respect, and authentic connection. You’ll learn how to stop “following up” and start building trust like a doctor, turning conversations, especially podcast interviews, into powerful trust-building opportunities that attract, not chase, ideal clients. If you’re a coach, consultant, or service professional ready to sell without selling, this conversation will transform how you think about growth. Forget the funnel. It’s time to build your cylinder.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:20] The trust recession explained [08:03] the doctor-patient analogy, building trust and respect in sales [12:48] By appointment only sales model to keep prospects engaged and filter real opportunities [23:32] Dangers of giving advice too soon and staying at the surface-level [27:59] Scaling trust-based selling with a team   Resources From This Episode: TheTrustBook.com AriGalper.com InterviewValet.com

What if your most powerful asset as a consultant, coach, or professional service provider wasn’t your expertise, credentials, or case studies - but your intuition? Samantha Hartley, of Enlightened Marketing, flips the script on how to stay indispensable in the age of AI during this conversation with host Tom Schwab. Drawing from her popular newsletter, Samantha explains why gut instinct, discernment, and lived experience are the real differentiators that no algorithm can replicate. She and Tom discuss why intuition is often more valuable than data when making high-stakes decisions, how subtle red flags and gut feelings can shape better client relationships, and why consultants and coaches matter because of AI, not in spite of it. Samantha also warns of the dangers of outsourcing too much thinking to machines, reminding us that relying too heavily on AI can erode our ability to think critically and creatively.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:10] Defining the boundaries of AI, sentience, and the irreplaceable human qualities in consulting. [09:56] Exploring how AI lacks evolutionary instincts, lived experience, and the risk of declining human critical thinking. [17:41] Cautions against the business rush to adopt AI without a thoughtful strategy, risking costly mistakes. [25:25] Exploring how AI is changing the meaning of work and which professions are most at risk.   Resources From This Episode: SamanthaHartley.com SamanthaHartley.com/6figureclients InterviewValet.com

Tech pioneer, leadership coach, and host of the Pull The Chute podcast, Jeff Sesol, and host Tom Schwab talk about what happens when innovation moves faster than our ability to process it. From building FreeDrive in the 90s, one of the earliest online file storage companies, to coaching leaders and hosting a top podcast, Jeff has seen firsthand how disruption reshapes the way we work and live. Together, they explore how AI is transforming productivity and relationships, why human thinking and empathy must stay at the center, and how leaders can “pull the chute” when the pressure is high, pausing to regain clarity and direction.   Timestamps From This Episode [3:33] The double-edged sword of AI and human thinking [12:33] Maintaining human agency in the age of AI [17:44] Using AI for business analysis and the irreplaceable value of human conversation [24:44] The power of explaining the “Why” [26:46] Encouraging employee ownership and engagement   Resources From This Episode PullTheChute.net Linkedin.com/in/jeffsesol InterviewValet.com

What if the biggest reason your marketing isn’t working has nothing to do with your price, your pitch, or even your product? Al Ramadan, co-founder of Play Bigger and co-author of the groundbreaking book Play Bigger: How Pirates, Dreamers, and Innovators Create and Dominate Markets, talks with Tom Schwab about the existing marketing trap. The mistake of competing for attention in crowded, established markets instead of creating and owning a new category. Al shares how he’s helped companies generate over $50 billion in market value by reframing the game entirely. If you’ve ever struggled to stand out, explain your true value, or escape the endless cycle of being “better, faster, or cheaper,” this conversation will flip the way you think about marketing.   Timestamps From This Episode: [03:16] How category kings dominate markets and capture most of the value and financial rewards. [10:10] Elevating your perceived value by focusing on a specific problem. [16:22] Category design for all entrepreneurs – both large and small. [22:06] Reframing products – A look at the BlackBerry vs iPhone. [26:18] Why you should seek to create new, undefined markets rather than compete in established ones.   Resources From This Episode: PlayBigger.com InterviewValet.com

This special edition episode gives you exclusive access to a presentation that most people won’t get to hear outside the event. Straight from the stage of The Build A Better Agency Summit, Tom Schwab shares how you can make ChatGPT your best referral source. In this talk, Tom reveals how AI has become one of the strongest new drivers of referrals, and how thought leaders, consultants, and professional service experts can position themselves to take advantage of it. You’ll hear his journey of trial, error, and discovery, and how podcast interviews create the authentic, long-form content AI trusts when recommending businesses to ideal clients. From increasing your share of voice, to building consistent brand sentiment to keeping your message fresh and relevant, Tom shows why the future of referrals is no longer just people, it’s people and AI. You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can apply now to ensure ChatGPT and other AI platforms become powerful advocates for your brand.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:28] Mindset shift – What does this make possible? [06:59] Why Interview Valet is choosing podcast interviews to win with AI this year. [13:28] Diversifying your brand voice to cast a broader reach. [30:13] Authenticity & AI-generated content. [39:30] The value of other people’s audiences.   Resources From This Episode: InterviewValet.com PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

You landed a podcast interview but do you really want it? Often guests want to land a show without first considering if it will drive the results they are looking for. Too often, guests show up, share in their expertise, and walk away with no leads, no traction, and no ROI. The problem isn’t the podcast itself; it’s that they didn’t get the right interview, only the one that was offered. Host Tom Schwab talks with Interview Valet’s Senior Client Account Manager and PR expert Liz Brooks about how guests can flip the script and take control of their interviews. Together, they discuss the importance of choosing shows where your ideal audience is listening, defining a flagship topic that makes your expertise stand out, and preparing clear calls-to-action that connect with listeners. They also explain how to use green room time and pre-show prep to align with the host, how to bring compelling stories that make your message resonate, and why every interview should be treated as the beginning of a long-term relationship rather than a one-time conversation. If you’ve ever walked away from a podcast thinking, “I wish we had talked about this,” this episode will show you how to ensure that never happens again so you can stop taking just any interview and start getting the ones that truly drive results.   Timestamps From This Episode [02:10] The Two-Step Process: Targeting and Delivery [09:01] Using your greenroom time effectively [18:53] Optimizing for results, not appearances [22:15] Defining and measuring success from podcast appearances   Resources From This Episode InterviewValet.com/Liz PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

If the thought of networking events makes you cringe, you’re not alone. Senior Account Manager and Podcast Strategist at Interview Valet, Kristen Nolan, talks about reimagining how real connections are built in today’s digital world. With that, Kristen introduces the idea of “Anti-Networking”, a smarter, more scalable way to grow your influence and authority without the awkward small talk or stacks of business cards. Instead of spending evenings at lackluster events, podcast interviews allow you to connect deeply with the right audiences, showcase your expertise, and build lasting relationships that actually matter. Together with host Tom Schwab, they break down why podcast interviews beat traditional networking hands down: they offer intimacy without the inefficiency, visibility without the noise, and authority that extends far beyond a single event. They also explore how intentional podcast guesting not only elevates your brand but also creates content that keeps working for you long after the conversation ends.   Timestamps From This Episode: [03:32] Podcasting as a quality networking source [07:41] Building genuine relationships, brand positioning, and share of voice through connection [12:31] Podcasting is an ideal platform for introverts [19:39] Driving meaningful relationships versus transactional interactions [23:08] Focusing on results, not activity, to drive sales   Resources From This Episode InterviewValet.com/Kristen Offers.interviewvalet.com/podcastwelcomepage

Business owners are incessantly told to chase leads and prospects. Ryan Hogan, naval officer, serial entrepreneur, and co-founder of Talent Harbor, points out that exponential growth, deeper trust, and better leads come from building ecosystems. Host Tom Schwab explores this growth strategy that too many ignore but the best business leaders rely on: investing in relationships with centers of influence. Ryan shares how he went from spending millions on ads at his previous company, Hunt A Killer, to now building Talent Harbor on a foundation of trust, referrals, and long-term partnerships. You’ll hear how he invested over $40,000 in podcasting before seeing a single referral, and why that patient, relationship-driven approach now fuels his biggest source of clients. This isn’t about spray-and-pray marketing or chasing clicks. It’s about cultivating ecosystems, building credibility inside connected communities, and unlocking exponential growth by focusing on the people who already serve your ideal audience.   Timestamps From This Episode: [03:27] Building ecosystems versus chasing prospects [12:07] Being patient and focusing on a long-term investment, not quick wins [18:31] Why leverage and relationship-building results over direct prospecting [25:00] How to connect multiple ecosystems to create new opportunities and deeper relationships   Resources From This Episode: TalentHarbor.com/Ryan InterviewValet.com

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t fit the mold (and had no desire to), this episode with Iron Mike Steadman, Peak Performance Coach and Category Designer for Underdogs and Misfits, is for you. His conversation with host Tom Schwab will inspire you to turn that difference into your greatest business advantage. A Naval Academy graduate, Marine combat veteran, and founder of The Misfits and the Frontline Voices podcast, Mike is on a mission to help military veterans, underdogs, and unapologetic originals design their own categories, attract the right audience, and thrive without selling out or blending in. Mike shares his four must-follow rules for surviving and thriving in business, why most marketing advice falls flat for small entrepreneurs, and how founder-led content can build category authority faster than any ad budget. You’ll learn why “different” is your superpower, how to niche down to eliminate competition, and why podcast interviews are one of the most powerful tools for owning the problem you solve.   Timestamps From This Episode: [05:20] Challenges veterans and corporate refugees face when entering entrepreneurship and the required mindset shift [13:42] Building missionary teams and founder-led culture [22:22] Pitfalls of personal branding and importance of category authority [31:44] Category design – niche down and accelerate payment [39:11] Four essential rules of entrepreneurship   Resources From This Episode: IronMikeSteadman.com InterviewValet.com

Former Amazon executive and bestselling author John Rossman shares with host Tom Schwab what it really takes to lead and innovate in what Rossman calls the age of turbulence. Far from chasing the hype around artificial intelligence, John argues that AI isn’t the strategy, it’s the test. Drawing on lessons from his books The Amazon Way, Think Like Amazon, and Big Bet Leadership, he explains how leaders can drive real growth by focusing on durable customer needs, designing meaningful experiments, and leading with strategic patience. The conversation dives into Amazon’s “working backwards” mindset, the dangers of using yesterday’s logic in today’s fast-moving landscape, and John’s three-layer AI strategy that goes beyond surface-level productivity hacks to help businesses rethink workflows and solve their biggest bottlenecks. Tom and John also explore how podcast interviews can serve as powerful platforms for innovation, experimentation, and refining your message in real time. Using a real-world example from Interview Valet, they discuss how AI was used to analyze thousands of email pitches to uncover what actually gets podcast hosts to say “yes.” Whether you're a solo expert, a service professional, or scaling a business, this episode delivers a fresh perspective on how to lead with agility and use AI to fuel progress, without falling for the buzzwords.   Timestamps From This Episode: [03:54] Being an active skeptic with AI, validate before committing [07:18] Working backwards, Amazon’s innovation process [15:02] Using AI to analyze podcast outreach [22:21] Leadership principle - ownership and enterprise thinking   Resources From This Episode: TheDigitalLeader.substack.com Linkedin.com/in/john-rossman

This conversation is the answer to everyone’s question, “Is this a good podcast for me?” This  groundbreaking conversation with Luke Belbina, co-founder of Pod Engine, shares a long-overdue innovation in podcast marketing with host Tom Schwab: The Podcast Authority Score. For years, podcast guesting has felt like guesswork, relying on incomplete or misleading metrics like download numbers. But now, with the power of AI and real-world podcast data, that’s about to change. Luke and Tom discuss why traditional metrics fall short, how AI can surface deeper insights, and how the Podcast Authority Score offers a transparent, actionable, and personalized way to evaluate podcast opportunities. You’ll hear the origin story behind the tool, the major data sources it uses (including audio quality, show notes, social activity, YouTube presence, and more), and how it’s designed not just to measure a podcast’s authority, but to help you find the right podcasts based on your unique goals. Timestamps From This Episode: [03:34] The problem with listener metrics [07:18] Introducing a new idea – customizing podcast authority scores based on individual needs [15:05] Transparency in podcast metrics to build trust [24:03] Future expectations for personalized software experiences in podcasting   Resources From This Episode: Podengine.ai InterviewValet.com

If you’ve ever been on radio or TV, or had media training that left you feeling “ready” for anything, this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about media appearances. Host Tom Schwab is joined by Liz Brooks, Senior Account Manager at Interview Valet, who brings deep experience from both the traditional PR world and the podcasting space. Together, they unpack why podcast interviews aren't just a different format, they're a dramatically more powerful platform for expert positioning and lead generation. Discover why podcast listeners are more intentional and engaged, how the long-form and conversational nature of podcasting creates authenticity and trust, and why repurposing podcast content is a goldmine compared to fleeting traditional media hits. You’ll also hear tips on making your interviews evergreen, the power of borrowed trust from hosts, and how podcasts influence not just your audience, but AI that’s indexing your voice and message for years to come.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:04] Comparison of passive radio/TV audiences vs intentional, engaged podcast listeners. [09:11] Format, time constraints, and accessibility – Podcasts offer flexible formats, making it more accessible for guests and audiences. [17:48] Repurposing and guest rights to content. [24:51] Podcasts allow guests to own their narrative and brand image. [28:36] AI, searchability, and online footprint   Resources From This Episode InterviewValet.com/Liz PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

In this bold and brutally honest episode of The Podcast Interview Marketing Show, host Tom Schwab is joined by Kristen Nolan, a senior client account manager at Interview Valet, to challenge one of the most common and costly mistakes podcast guests make: leading with their origin story. We've all heard the advice, "just tell your story." But Tom and Kristen unpack how that advice can derail your interview, bore your listeners, and completely miss the mark when it comes to building authority and driving results. This conversation dives into the difference between ego-driven storytelling and value-driven insight, and why your autobiography isn’t the hook that converts listeners into leads. They explore why listeners tune in to learn (not to hear a resume) and offer clear guidance on how to weave your personal experiences into a larger narrative that solves problems, demonstrates your expertise, and speaks directly to your ideal audience. You’ll learn how to shift from self-promotion to service, how to tailor your message with relevance and empathy, and how to use storytelling strategically rather than generically.   Timestamps From This Episode [02:27] Why origin stories fail to engage your audience. [08:11] The power of “I believe” statements and using stories to support, not lead, your message. [16:05] How understanding a show’s host creates rapport and relevance during interviews. [18:42] Why listeners tune you out. [24:07] How to weave in your story effectively.   Resources: InterviewValet.com/Kristen PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

If you think podcast guesting ends when the interview wraps, this episode will shift your entire mindset. Host Tom Schwab is joined by Chloe Williamson, Senior Account Manager at Interview Valet, for a game-changing conversation on how to strategically repurpose your podcast interviews. Chloe shares why repurposing is not just an afterthought, it’s a critical part of your content strategy. Together, she and Tom explore how to transform every podcast appearance into evergreen marketing fuel. You’ll hear practical tips on how to use interview clips, quote graphics, blog posts, lead magnets, email signatures, and even book chapters, all starting with a single interview. From creating a multi-touch social strategy to using interviews in your nurture sequences and on your website, this episode is full of actionable ways to amplify your authority and extend the value of your conversations. If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I get more from the interviews I’m already doing?”—this episode gives you the blueprint. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to stop leaving gold on the table.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:22] Repurposing As A Strategy, Not An Afterthought [05:42] The Joe Rogan Effect – The power of repurposed content [12:09] LinkedIn posting best practices [23:08] Showcasing your media appearances on your website [27:43] Why you need to be transcribing your interviews for content creation   Resources From This Episode: InterviewValet.com/Chloe PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

What makes a podcast call to action (CTA) effective without sounding like a pushy sales pitch? In this episode, Tom Schwab is joined by Interview Valet’s Marketing Manager, Tiffany Meenk, to explore how to craft CTAs that feel natural, offer real value, and move listeners to take the next step. Together, they unpack how to lead with intention before ever hitting record, why offering a “small yes, medium yes, and heck yes” gives your audience options that meet them where they are, and why podcast interviews are conversations, not commercials. Tiffany shares practical tips on how to integrate your CTA organically, how to avoid dated or ineffective closing lines, and how a thoughtful welcome page can keep your calls to action evergreen and effective. If you’ve ever stumbled when asked, “Where can our listeners find you?”, this episode gives you a smarter way forward. Timestamps From This Episode: [02:16] Podcast interviews vs sales calls [05:39] Avoiding sales tactics and language during your interviews [10:18] The three yeses approach to making a call to action [15:47] CTAs that don’t work on podcasts   Resources From This Episode: InterviewValet.com PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

In this episode of The Podcast Interview Marketing Show, Tom Schwab is joined by Interview Valet’s Operations Manager, Jessica Morgan, to explore a powerful yet often overlooked strategy for scaling visibility and authority: bringing multiple voices from your team into your podcast interview marketing efforts. Together, they unpack how having different speakers share your brand message not only expands your reach but also deepens connections with niche audiences, boosts credibility, and prevents burnout, all without increasing your workload or budget. Jessica shares insights from the operational side, highlighting how Interview Valet has seen success by leveraging the unique talents and perspectives of team members across PR, health and wellness, and business leadership. Tom reflects on how this approach has unlocked new opportunities, created sustainable growth, and positioned the company for greater influence with both clients and AI platforms like ChatGPT that index podcast content. They discuss how empowering your team to share their expertise on podcasts builds trust, attracts ideal clients, and creates a scalable marketing engine that continues working, even when you're not in the spotlight. Whether you're currently the sole voice of your brand or ready to grow your influence, this episode offers a compelling case for turning your team into your greatest marketing asset.   Timestamps From This Episode: [03:28] Team members’ unique expertise to connect with different audiences. [07:57] Authority through diverse representation. [12:16] Founder-led marketing vs. a team approach to avoid burnout and bottlenecks. [23:05] Brand guidelines to maintain a consistent tone of voice.   Resources From This Episode: InterviewValet.com PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

Tom Schwab is joined by Interview Valet Lead Account Manager Chloe Williamson for a candid and tactical conversation on one of the most common questions podcast guests face: “What should I say on a podcast?” They break down how to craft podcast messaging that goes beyond clever catchphrases and instead connects deeply with the right audience. They explore the power of intentional communication, how to position yourself as a go-to expert without sounding self-promotional, how to frame your story in a way that’s clear, compelling, and memorable, and how to speak from experience to earn trust and spark action. From understanding the importance of defining your “box”, or category, to using relatable client stories and bold point-of-view statements, Chloe shares what it really takes to show up with authenticity and impact. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to articulate your message, or if you're looking to make your interviews not only resonate—but move your market—this episode is for you.   Timestamps From This Episode: [01:22] Common messaging challenges – balancing personal story vs value. [07:55] Using category design to help audiences understand your expertise and messaging context. [11:42] Using “I” messaging to establish expertise and authenticity. [19:36] Being relatable and focusing on the client as the hero, not on name-dropping.  [23:06] Crafting natural, authentic messaging to better connect with your audience.   Resources From This Episode: InterviewValet.com/chloe PodcastInterviewMarketing.com

Tom Schwab sits down with seasoned podcast strategist Kristen Nolan to tackle one of the most common concerns among thoughtful podcast guests: how to talk about yourself and your business without sounding salesy. This conversation is for the practitioners, the experts who want to show up and serve, while also growing their brand with authenticity and purpose. Together, they break down what it means to connect meaningfully with listeners and how to share your expertise in a way that builds trust rather than resistance. With Kristen, Tom explores the shift from trying to build credibility to creating a genuine connection, the importance of framing your message around the listener's problem, and how to structure a call-to-action that feels natural and helpful. Throughout the discussion, they highlight real-world examples and common mistakes, like the five deadly sins that make guests sound pushy or unprepared, and offer practical advice on how to avoid them. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to leverage podcast interviews to grow their business with integrity, empathy, and impact.   Timestamps From This Episode: [02:49] Connection, relatable problems, and organic mentions of products over self-promotion [06:12] Host/Guest tips for aligning expectations before recording. [13:42] Avoiding your boilerplate sales pitch by customizing your stories for your audience. [15:25] The five deadly sins of podcast selling. [29:29] How to identify and serve your super consumers.   Resources From This Episode: InterviewValet.com/Kristen PodcastInterviewMarketing.com